Cilla Black’s son Robert is on the hunt for an actress to play his mother in a new stage show

The musical is written and finished but Robert needs a leading lady to take on the iconic role of Cilla – who sadly passed away in August 2015.

Speaking to Holly Willoughby and Ore Oduba on Thursday’s This Morning, Robert said: “Sheridan Smith isn’t available as she’s doing Funny Girl so we’re looking for a lead actress.

“What we’re doing is holding a series of open auditions around the whole country to find our Cilla.
“She’s out there, she has to be able to act and sing – it could be anyone. If you’ve got it then come and audition.”

The show will start in Liverpool on September 7 before touring the nationwide.

When asked what star qualities any hopefuls needed, Robert added: “The thing is, what Sheridan did very brilliantly, it wasn’t an imitation it was an interpretation.”

After Cilla’s death, her sons Robert, Ben and Jack have worked tirelessly to keep her memory alive.
Along with the TV show and theatre production, last year they unveiled a statue to commemorate Cilla in Liverpool.

Robert said explained: “It brings a smile because they’ve caught the joy.